Ombre hair is a color that changes gradually from darker at the roots to lighter at the ends. The word is French for shaded. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Ombre hair at a glance
- Type: Technique
- Tone: Any
- Lightening needed: Yes, on the lower half of the hair.
- Maintenance: Low
- Touch-ups: 3 to 6 months
What makes it different
The change runs horizontally down the hair, so the ends are fully light. It's bolder than balayage and needs almost no root upkeep.
Ombre vs balayage
Ombre is a result: dark roots fading to light ends. Balayage is a technique: hand-painted highlights placed throughout, with strands of light and dark at every level.
Who it suits
Medium to long hair, where there's room for the gradient. It works on every base color.
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What to ask your colorist
- Say where the lightness should begin: cheekbone, chin or lower.
- Say how light the ends should be.
- Ask for a soft blend so there's no visible line.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
The ends are the most processed part, so use masks and trim regularly. Use a toning shampoo if they turn brassy.
Shades and variations
- Sombre: a soft, subtle ombre with less contrast.
- Reverse ombre: light roots and dark ends.
- Colored ombre: ends in pink, red or another shade.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see ombre hair on your own hair before you book.
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FAQ
What is ombre hair?
Ombre hair is a color that changes gradually from darker at the roots to lighter at the ends.
Who suits ombre hair?
Medium to long hair, where there's room for the gradient. It works on every base color.
Do you need bleach for ombre hair?
Yes, on the lower half of the hair.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 3 to 6 months.
